Is Tai Chi Right For Me?
Tai chi is a low impact exercise and puts minimal stress on muscles and joints, making it generally safe for all ages and fitness levels. Tai Chi requires no special equipment so practice can be done anywhere - indoors or outdoors, at any time of the day. Although tai chi can be quite social, it can also be practised alone, cultivating a sense of peaceful mindfulness.
When learned correctly and performed regularly, tai chi can be a positive part of an overall approach to improving your health. The benefits of tai chi may include:
Decreased stress, anxiety and depression
Improved mood
Improved aerobic capacity
Increased energy and stamina
Improved flexibility, balance and agility
Improved muscle strength and definition
Some evidence indicates that tai chi may also help:
Enhance quality of sleep
Enhance the immune system
Help lower blood pressure
Improve joint pain
Improve symptoms of congestive heart failure
Improve overall well-being
Reduce risk of falls in older adults
Many students, before beginning their first session, will confess that they have ‘poor coordination’, or ‘poor balance’ - however, all are pleasantly surprised after a few sessions as their confidence has improved, paving the way for development of coordination and balance. The journey is a slow but enjoyable one and the learning environment is a respectful and productive one.
Classes run for 50 minutes and are usually held indoors. Weather permitting, we sometimes conduct parts of the class outside. Wear loose, comfortable clothing and soft soled shoes. Classes are held in Mt Martha, Mornington and Somers and we have designated Beginner classes facilitated by experienced instructors for those just beginning their tai chi journey. Classes run during the school term, with school holiday short courses available. Classes are not held on public holidays.
RMTC classes are always a positive experience, with new students warmly welcomed into the fold.
Face to Face Class Fees 2024
There are no joining fees at Rising Moon Tai Chi. Students are welcome to ‘pay as you go’ ($25 per class), or purchase 10 sessions ($205), which have an expiry of 6 months and they can be used for any weekly class. They can be transferred to a friend or relative if you find you are unable to attend classes. Payments can also be made term by term, allowing you to attend up to 4 classes a week. A 10-week Term is $200. No refunds can be issued once the term has commenced, or once a Pass has been used. For more details and the timetable, click here
Gift Certificates
Gift vouchers can be arranged, for 1, 5 or 10 sessions. Email info@risingmoontaichi.net for more information.
About our Classes
Classes at Rising Moon Tai Chi are held in a relaxed and respectful environment. Usually conducted indoors, the session changes focus from individual and group work, to instructor led or student led exercises. It is a standing activity, requiring similar energy levels as a good walk. Of course, there are always chairs available if students would prefer this to standing. Classes run for an hour or 45 minutes. Wear layered clothing so you can remove clothing as you warm up. Special uniforms are not necessary, but clothing should be loose and comfortable. Wear soft soled shoes. It is a good idea to bring a drink bottle to each class.
Students are encouraged to leave their stress and worries at the door, to focus on the Tai Chi method, and to practice patience with themselves and each other. But above all, students are encouraged have fun and enjoy the learning experience.
Weather permitting, sessions can also be run outdoors, where the fresh air and beautiful surrounds can be enjoyed.
The class begins with the salute and warm-up exercises, followed by either a Tai Chi form, Shibashi or Qigong, depending upon the session. The class concludes with another salute, where students and instructor bow as a sign of mutual respect.
Social activities and community events are always enjoyed within the group and lunches, outings and morning teas are organised throughout the year. All are welcome, including friends and families of students.
Read What Students are Saying
Observations from a student attending weekly classes
"I would highly recommend the RMTC school to anyone contemplating beginning the tai chi journey, or anyone wishing to further advance their tai chi practice. Jenny Harrison has a skill for presenting each of the tai chi forms in a step by step progression that enables all students to make considerable progress. The class atmosphere Jenny cultivates is always nurturing, inclusive and encouraging with students ever ready to celebrate each other's achievements. Support materials for home practice can be purchased through the school and have proved to be an invaluable aid. Free tai chi sessions in the park over the summer months are a popular social activity and just one of the many ways Jenny demonstrates great dedication to running her school.
Tai Chi is often described as moving meditation. When I joined the RMTC school, I found myself moving under the instruction of a dedicated and talented teacher and alongside a wonderful bunch of tai chi enthusiasts. I highly recommend the School." - Bev
"Jenny is a natural communicator. Her expertise as a trained educator shows in the way she teaches and she teaches the finer details of learning tai chi - the mental, spiritual, physical and emotional. Jenny is very generous with her knowledge and oh so patient." - De
"Simple outstanding. Best course in many years." - Mark
"This has challenged me in all the right ways." - Vanessa
"Exceeded all expectations." - Karen